Investment 101: Dollar Cost Averaging

What is Dollar-Cost Averaging?

Dollar-cost averaging refers to the practice of investing a fixed amount of money at regular intervals into a specific investment. This approach results in purchasing fewer shares/units when prices are high and more shares/units when prices are low. The goal is to average the cost per share/unit over time, rather than attempting to predict or time market highs and lows.

For example:

Suppose you intend to commence an investment portfolio. The managed fund/s selected unit price may be $2.40 today, $2.50 next month, and $2.20 the month after.  

By investing $100 each month over these three months, you would acquire 127.12 shares at an average price of $2.36 per share. In contrast, investing the entire $300 at the initial price of $2.40 would yield only 125 shares.  

While dollar-cost averaging can sometimes produce modest gains, there may also be instances of small losses. The underlying principle is that if the investment's price generally increases over time, this strategy can help smooth out the average purchase price.

Advantages of Dollar-Cost Averaging

• No requirement to time the market: It can be challenging to determine the optimal timing for investments. Dollar-cost averaging reduces reliance on making purchases at specific points in time by spreading investments across different market conditions.
• Lower initial capital requirements: This strategy enables investors to participate in the market with smaller, more manageable amounts, accumulating investments gradually.
• Simplicity and consistency: Dollar-cost averaging fosters disciplined investing and helps individuals establish a consistent investment routine. Once an investment and contribution schedule are selected, the strategy can mitigate the effects of market fluctuations over time.

Potential Trade-Offs

As with all investment strategies, dollar-cost averaging does not guarantee positive returns and involves the risk of capital loss. It is one option among various investment approaches available to investors.

Investors with a lump sum available may wish to consider whether immediate full investment could offer advantages over spreading investments over time, as an earlier start may potentially extend the investment horizon. However, not all investors are comfortable allocating a substantial amount at once. For those with a more cautious risk tolerance, dollar-cost averaging may provide a prudent way to build confidence and grow a portfolio incrementally.

Before you put a strategy in place

Investing carries risks. Returns are not guaranteed, and there is a possibility of losing initial capital. No personalised advice or recommendations are provided; all information offered is general in nature. Individuals should seek independent financial, taxation, or other professional advice to determine if an investment aligns with your objectives, financial circumstances, or needs.

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